Broome County Executive Jason Garnar, Congressman Anthony Brindisi and Broome County Department of Public Transportation Commissioner Greg Kilmer, among other local leaders, joined forces Friday to announce details of eight new buses hitting the streets of Broome County.

The new clean diesel Gillig buses will replace buses in the county that are more than 14 years old. These buses will offer cleaner emissions, lower fuel consumption and lower cost per mile to operate. The buses will also offer riders a more comfortable and pleasant experience.

“We’re excited to place these eight beautiful new buses into service,” Commissioner Kilmer said. “Support from State, Federal and Local officials is vital in continuing the effort to rebuild public transportation infrastructure in Broome County.

Public Transportation supports the local economy, employment, education, healthcare, retail, and leisure.

“It’s important for Broome County residents to be able to access public transportation in our county, and this is just another step in continuing to help residents get to where they need to go safely and efficiently,” said County Executive Garnar.

The total cost of the project is $3,574,976 with the price per bus at $446,872. Most of that funding is coming from State Capital Funding, while Federal Formula Funding and Local County funding make up the rest.

Funding Breakdown:

Total $3,574,976

Federal Formula Funding $ 897,064 25.09%

State Capital Funding $2,565,780 71.77%

Local Broome County Share $ 112,132 3.14%

Of the more than $3.5 million project, only $112,000 will be paid for by local tax payers.

“Getting new, more efficient buses on the road is great news for Broome County,” said Congressman Brindisi. “Investing in our public transportation helps keep our communities safe, healthy, and economically secure. From rebuilding our roads and bridges to updating our public transportation systems, I will continue working with local and state officials to make sure the needs of the community are met. I commend County Executive Garnar and Commissioner Kilmer for their commitment to improving transportation options for our community.”

By the beginning of 2020 B.C. Transit will have replaced 30 buses, a full two thirds of the fleet dedicated to the Fixed Route transit system.